The startling emerged as the PSNI and internet organisation Get Safe Online launched a new bid to raise awareness about thwarting criminals.

The police also revealed that they are dealing with 300 requests a month relating to cyber incidents.

A Get Safe Online survey found 22% of people here said they had a limited understanding of the risks they face when going online but 94% added they were “somewhat or very concerned” about their online safety and security.

It also showed the same number felt online crime was as damaging, or more so, than physical crime.

GSO chief Tony Neate said: “It is clear from our survey people are very concerned, and rightly so.

“The fact that over half of people here felt there was nothing that could have been done to stop them becoming a victim is alarming indeed – particularly when it’s so easy to protect yourself online. It seems there is still a big education job to do. We need to ensure we update the operating systems of our various devices and ensure security software is always updated.

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“We all need to ensure we have a different password for each online account we own and website we visit. Online safety needs to be part of our everyday routines.”

Det Chief Inspector Dougie Grant said the internet “offers amazing opportunities to people but it also poses risks”.

He added: “It is estimated more than half of all crime now has a cyber footprint.

“The PSNI deals with more than 300 requests a month relating to cyber incidents. One in 10 people will be victims of a cyber crime. Nine out of 10 large organisations have reported suffering a cyber breach.